If this is your first visit, be sure to
check out the FAQ by clicking the
link above. You may have to register
before you can post: click the register link above to proceed. To start viewing messages,
select the forum that you want to visit from the selection below.

Hi Jason,
Welcome to e-budo.
I have heard the phrase used in reference to preparedness, or maintaining the proper frame of mind. However, it isn't a commonly used phrase in the Mugai ryu that I practice and I don't speak Japanese myself, so I've only anecdotal knowledge of it.

If you don't mind me asking, why are you writing a paper about it if you don't know what it means, or were you looking for alternative interpretations to the one used within your practice?

Just curious.

Paul Smith
"Always keep the sharp side and the pointy end between you and your opponent"

many thanks for the reply. The paper is actually about the concept of Kokoro, and by extension my Instructor has asked me to investigate the concept of Kokoro Gamai as well. As I understand it the phrase relates to preparedness of mind, but I was wondering if anyone had any further interpretations of the subject. I've also found that it relates to sincerity of intent with regards to practice in some interpretations as well. As a Karate practitioner I'm familiar with Kokoro and Shin Gi Tai, but hadn't come across Kokoro Gamai much.

Trying to write a paper about the Japanese concept of Kokoro could potentially turn into a novel, as they use it for all sorts of things.
Research is good though. My understanding is pretty much in line with yours regarding Kokoro Gamai. If you think about it though, sincerity of intent is also a part of preparedness.

Hopefully someone with more familiarity of the subject will chime in. Don't know if it will happen though as traffic on almost all forums has pretty much died down to nothing. Keep our fingers crossed!

Paul Smith
"Always keep the sharp side and the pointy end between you and your opponent"